Forest Rescues is a city-wide volunteer program to improve the health of Fairfax’s urban forest by reversing the spread of invasive plants in our parks and woodlands.
Since its launch in February 2025, Forest Rescues volunteers have logged over 750 invasive removal hours in city parks. We welcome volunteers of all ages and experience to volunteer at our events. Events are typically held February through May each year.
View all City Events
For other volunteer opportunities, visit the city's Volunteer webpage.
Forest Rescuers are more than just volunteers — they are ambassadors for healthier forests and sustainable landscaping. Our Forest Rescuer Certification Program is designed for volunteers who want to become super-stewards in their communities.
Supported by city staff and resources, Forest Rescuers work independently on habitat restoration projects in parks across the city, leading visible, impactful stewardship of our urban forest.
To become a Forest Rescuer, community members should meet our application requirements listed on this page and apply online.
Completion of Training
Attend an official Forest Rescuers training with the Stewardship Coordinator. Trainings (typically 2 hours) are free and open to any individual interested in learning more about the importance of nature and biodiversity in Fairfax City. Upcoming trainings will be listed on the City Calendar.
Volunteer Experience
Complete at least two volunteer workdays removing invasive plants (minimum four hours combined total) with the city or a similar invasive management program. Find upcoming workdays on SignUpGenius →
Example programs include Fairfax County Invasive Management Area Program, Arlington County RiP, Earth Sangha, Friends of Accotink Creek, The Clifton Institute, Reston Association's Habitat Heroes, Northern Virginia Bird Alliance, and Northern Virginia Conservation Trust.
Please email the Stewardship Coordinator (sophia.chapin@fairfaxva.gov) if you have questions about whether your experience qualifies.
Age Restrictions
Volunteers under 18 will require a parent or guardian's consent to participate. Volunteers 15 years old or younger will require supervision from a parent or guardian to participate; if this applies to your child, please contact the Stewardship Coordinator (sophia.chapin@fairfaxva.gov) prior to submitting an application.
Waiver & Liability
All volunteers must complete a liability waiver to participate in volunteer activities. Waivers can be emailed to sophia.chapin@fairfaxva.gov or brought to the office of Community Development & Planning at City Hall (Room 207).
Application
Please make sure you have met the program requirements before submitting your Forest Rescuer application.
Forest Rescuer application
The Stewardship Coordinator reviews Forest Rescuer applications within 5-7 business days of submission. Application status updates will be sent via email.
Once certification is approved, applicants will meet with the Stewardship Coordinator to review their site management plan, conduct a site walk, complete any required paperwork, and receive a brief orientation to the Forest Rescues program. A certification card, loaner tools, and other program materials will be provided at the orientation.
